ARAGUARI,
the third of three Ocean Patrol Vessels built by BAE Systems, was handed
over to the Brazilian Navy in a ceremony at Portsmouth Naval Base today.
Employees joined guests from the Brazilian Navy and UK Royal Navy, to
watch as members of the ship’s company raised the ensign for the
first time, formally marking the handover of the Brazilian Navy’s
newest vessel. |
Mick
Ord, Managing Director of BAE Systems Maritime - Naval Ships business,
said: “We are extremely proud to deliver Araguari. She is a highly
capable ship, and with her sister ships, will be a great asset to the
Brazilian Navy.
“We have written a new chapter in BAE Systems’ relationship
with Brazil with the completion of the Amazonas class of ships. We look
forward to continued partnership with the Brazilian Navy for many years
to come.”
Vice Admiral Francisco Deiana, the Brazilian Navy’s Director of
Naval Engineering, said:
“The three Amazonas class units make up an important contribution
to both our ability to provide security, safety and protection to the
Brazil’s Jurisdictional Waters and to deliver our commitments
to the Brazilian Maritime Authority.
He went on to say: “Araguari, the third and last vessel, together
with her sisters are no doubt a very important asset to the Brazilian
Navy’s inventory and is a clear indication of a very good relationship
that has been developed between the Brazilian Navy and BAE Systems.”
First of the class, Amazonas, was handed over to the Brazilian Navy
in June 2012. The second ship, APA, was completed in November of last
year.
During the preparation of the three ships, Portsmouth has hosted 250
Brazilian crew members as they underwent extensive training and preparation
to take ownership of the new ships.
The Ocean Patrol Vessels will provide Brazil with enhanced maritime
capability. With a 30mm cannon and two 25mm guns, as well as two rigid
inflatable boats and a helicopter flight deck capable of landing a medium-sized
helicopter, the ships are ideal for performing maritime security in
Brazil’s territorial waters, including the protection of the country’s
offshore oil and gas reserves. The vessels accommodate a crew of 80,
with additional accommodation for 40 embarked troops or passengers and
ample deck space for container storage.
The three ship contract, announced in January 2012, also includes a
manufacturing licence to enable further vessels of the same class to
be constructed in Brazil, helping to support the country’s naval
re-equipment programme and strengthen its maritime industrial capability.
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